Inside Scoop: 2026 RBs Excited About Tashard Choice, Notes on Nationally Elite Prospects Planning Trips to Austin
The Texas Longhorns continue to build momentum on the recruiting trail, and one key factor in their success is **running backs coach Tashard Choice**. Choice has gained a reputation as one of the best recruiters in college football, and his ability to connect with elite running back prospects is paying dividends for Texas.
As the **2026 recruiting cycle heats up**, several top running backs have expressed their excitement about Choice and the vision he has for the Longhorns’ rushing attack. Meanwhile, other nationally elite prospects—across multiple positions—are **planning visits to Austin** in the coming months, signaling that Texas remains a top destination for high-level recruits.
2026 RBs Fired Up About Tashard Choice
Choice has built a **strong rapport** with some of the top running backs in the **2026 class**, making Texas a serious contender for multiple elite prospects. One of the key names to watch is **Jaden Nickens**, a four-star back who has already received offers from several SEC and Big Ten powerhouses.
Nickens recently spoke about his growing relationship with Choice, emphasizing the energy and passion that makes him stand out as a recruiter.
> *“Coach Choice is one of the realest coaches out there. He’s been in the league, he knows what it takes, and he really cares about his players. Texas is definitely a school I’m looking at because of him.”*
Another elite back showing interest in Texas is **Braylon Anderson**, a highly regarded prospect out of Florida. Anderson praised Choice’s **development track record**, pointing out that he’s coached some of the best backs in the country, including **Bijan Robinson and Jonathon Brooks**.
> “I see what Texas has done with their running backs under Coach Choice, and that’s big for me. He knows how to get guys ready for the next level.”
Choice’s NFL background, high-energy personality, and development success** have made him one of the most respected running backs coaches in the country. His ability to **connect with recruits and their families** is keeping Texas in play for some of the top talent in the 2026 cycle.
Nationally Elite Prospects Planning Trips to Austin
While the Longhorns are in a great spot with multiple running backs, they’re also drawing interest from several **top prospects across other positions**.
One of the biggest names expected to visit Austin soon is **five-star quarterback Malik Jefferson**, who has Texas high on his list. Jefferson is regarded as one of the top signal-callers in the 2026 class and has a strong relationship with **Steve Sarkisian** and the Texas coaching staff.
Another elite player planning a trip to Austin is four-star offensive lineman Carter Williams who has offers from Georgia, Alabama, and Ohio State. Williams recently spoke about his interest in Texas, citing the program’s player development and culture
Texas is building something special, and I want to see it for myself. The coaching staff has done a great job, and they’ve made it clear they want me there.”
Additionally, five-star defensive back Jordan Matthewsis expected to visit Texas in the coming months. Matthews is one of the most dynamic players in the country and has drawn comparisons to **former Longhorns star Caden Sterns**.
Texas has a great DB tradition, and I love how they develop guys for the NFL. It’s a program I want to learn more about.
Texas Making a Strong Impression on 2026 Recruits
With elite talent from across the country showing serious interest, Texas is well-positioned to land another top-tier recruiting class in 2026. The Longhorns’ coaching staff, led by Tashard Choice, Steve Sarkisian, and others, is making a strong impact, ensuring that some of the nation’s best prospects keep Austin high on their list.
As visits ramp up, Texas fans should keep a close eye on which recruits fall in love with the program—because the Longhorns are making their case as one of the premier destinations in college football.